Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
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If you’re craving a delightful twist on a childhood classic, look no further than this Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe. These treats combine the gooey, comforting texture of marshmallows with the rich, nutty allure of creamy peanut butter, all sprinkled with just the right touch of salt to make those flavors pop. Each bite offers that perfect balance of sweet, salty, and buttery crunch that instantly feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re making them for a weekend treat, a party snack, or a fun kitchen adventure with friends or family, this recipe is bound to become a beloved favorite you’ll want to share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe so wonderful is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each component plays a starring role in creating a taste and texture that’s both nostalgic and excitingly new.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and smooth texture that binds the treats together with a luscious creaminess.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Provides buttery richness and helps the marshmallows melt evenly for that classic stretchy consistency.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the sweetness with a subtle aromatic warmth that complements the peanut butter beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness without overpowering the peanut butter.
- 10 oz marshmallows (mini or regular): The magical glue that creates that iconic soft and gooey texture everyone loves.
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: Offers the signature crisp crunch that contrasts perfectly with the gooey marshmallow and peanut butter blend.
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping): A finishing touch that adds bursts of saltiness and a pretty shimmer on top of each luscious bite.
How to Make Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch pan with butter or cooking spray. This is a simple step with a big impact—it ensures your treats will come out easily and keep their perfect shape when you slice them later.
Step 2: Melt the Base
In a large pot over medium heat, melt together the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter, stirring frequently until you get a smooth, combined mixture. Then, add the marshmallows and keep stirring constantly until they completely melt and blend into the peanut butter butter mixture. This melty base is the heart of your treats, and its smoothness is key for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
Step 3: Flavor Boost
Once the marshmallows are fully melted, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and fine sea salt. This step adds layers of flavor complexity, making this Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe truly unforgettable by balancing sweetness with a subtle salty edge.
Step 4: Mix It Up
Gently fold the Rice Krispies cereal into the melted marshmallow and peanut butter mixture. The goal here is to coat every crisp piece with that luscious gooey coating without crushing the cereal, giving your treats layers of satisfying texture in every bite.
Step 5: Press Into the Pan
Transfer the crunchy, sticky mixture to your prepared pan. Press it down gently, using a greased spatula or your oiled hands, packing it evenly but without squishing too much air out. This ensures your treats are compact enough to hold together but still airy and chewy.
Step 6: Add Flaky Salt
This is the finishing flourish—sprinkle flaky sea salt over the warm treats. It’s optional but highly recommended, as those sparkling salt crystals add delightful bursts of flavor and a beautiful contrast that truly elevates the whole dessert experience.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Once set, slice them into perfect squares and get ready to enjoy the magic of your Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe come to life bite by bite!
How to Serve Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance presentation and flavor by adding a few finishing touches. Drizzle melted chocolate or peanut butter over the top, sprinkle mini chocolate chips, or add chopped roasted peanuts for extra crunch. These garnishes make your treats visually irresistible and add texture that amplifies every mouthful.
Side Dishes
Pair your salty-sweet treats with a cold glass of milk, vanilla ice cream, or even fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. These combinations make for a well-rounded snack or dessert experience, balancing indulgence with lightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Mix things up by cutting your treats into fun shapes with cookie cutters for themed parties or gift-giving. Wrap individual squares in parchment with a ribbon for a personal touch. You can also layer them with chocolate bars or sandwich them around a scoop of ice cream for an unexpected twist that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and chewy for up to 3 days, making them perfect for snacking later without losing that signature texture.
Freezing
If you need to prepare these treats in advance, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months, so you can enjoy the same great taste anytime with just a little thawing.
Reheating
To bring back that just-made softness, microwave frozen treats for 10-15 seconds or let them thaw at room temperature. They regain their chewy texture quickly and remain just as delightful as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful nutty texture, making your Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats a bit more textured and extra nutty. Just mix gently so you don’t break up the cereal pieces.
Can I substitute marshmallows with marshmallow creme?
Yes, marshmallow creme works as a substitute and will give you a smooth, sticky base. Just use about 1 1/3 cups of marshmallow creme in place of the 10 oz marshmallows.
Is the salt really necessary in this recipe?
The fine sea salt and optional flaky salt topping are crucial for balancing the sweetness and deepening the peanut butter flavor. If you skip the salt, the treats might taste overly sweet, so a pinch is definitely worth it!
What if I don’t have Rice Krispies cereal?
You can try other puffed rice cereals, but Rice Krispies have that classic light crispiness and subtle flavor which paired perfectly with the peanut butter and marshmallow mix in this recipe.
Can these treats be made vegan?
To make these vegan, use vegan butter, a plant-based peanut butter without added honey, and a dairy-free marshmallow alternative. The texture might vary slightly, but the deliciousness remains intact.
Final Thoughts
This Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe is one of those joyful, crowd-pleasing desserts that never fails to bring smiles. It’s simple to make but packed with flavor and texture that’s both nostalgic and exciting. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying something new, these treats are a wonderful way to bring a bit of magic and comfort to your kitchen. Go ahead and give them a try—you’re going to love every salty, sweet bite!
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Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats combine the classic crunchy cereal snack with creamy peanut butter and a touch of sea salt for an irresistible sweet and salty flavor. Perfectly chewy and easy to make, these treats are great for dessert or a fun snack.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 10 oz marshmallows (mini or regular)
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Topping (Optional)
- Flaky sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan with butter or cooking spray and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Melt the Base: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter together, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add the marshmallows and continue stirring until they are fully melted and integrated into the mixture.
- Flavor Boost: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and fine sea salt to enhance the flavor with a subtle salty sweetness.
- Mix It Up: Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow and peanut butter mixture. Gently fold the cereal in until all pieces are evenly coated with the sticky base.
- Press Into Pan: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared pan. Using a greased spatula or oiled hands, press the mixture down gently and evenly to form a compact layer.
- Add Flaky Salt: While still warm, sprinkle flaky sea salt evenly over the top of the treats to add a crunchy salty finish, if desired.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, letting them set firmly. Once cooled, slice into 12 squares and serve.
Notes
- For easier pressing, grease your spatula or hands to prevent sticking.
- You can use either mini or regular marshmallows, both work well.
- If you prefer a stronger peanut flavor, use natural peanut butter.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh.
- Adding flaky sea salt on top is optional but enhances the sweet and salty contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
